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(Sharecast News) - Infrastructure solutions specialist Hill & Smith posted a "strong" firsthalf performance on Wednesday, underpinned by doubledigit organic growth in its US operations, prompting the group to lift fullyear expectations.
Underlying revenues increased 8% to $606.7m, and underlying operating profit also rose 8% to $102.9m. Statutory operating profits, on the other hand, fell 13% to $76.5m, while statutory pre-tax profits declined 16% to $69.2m. Underlying earnings per share grew 9% to USD 90.6cents. The interim dividend was lifted 7% to USD 25cents.
Hill & Smith delivered 5% organic constantcurrency revenue growth, with robust US demand offsetting weaker trading in UK Engineered Solutions. US businesses grew 14% organically, while revenue from highergrowth priority end markets rose to 39% of group turnover, up from 34% last year. Underlying operating margins held steady at 17.0%, with US expansion offset by lower UK and India margins.
The FTSE 250-listed group said portfolio management remained disciplined, with US transmission & distribution and galvanizing capacity expansions progressing toward commissioning from late 2026. Recent acquisitions Freeberg and Hentech were said to be performing well, supported by strong momentum at Freeberg as its new factory ramps up.
With sustained US momentum, Hill & Smith now expects FY26 underlying operating profits to be "modestly ahead" of prior guidance, alongside a small margin improvement versus 2025.
As of 0815 BST, Hill & Smith shares were down 0.49% at 3,070p.
Reporting by Iain Gilbert at Sharecast.com
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